Principal Machine Learning Engineer (Search Platform)

Responsibilities

• Shape the future of AI-powered search across all OLX verticals.
• Lead the design and evolution of OLX’s Search AI Platform, developing LLM- and GenAI-based systems.
• Partner with the Principal Search Engineer to define and implement a unified technical strategy.
• Guide a cross-functional team of ML engineers, data scientists, and platform engineers.
• Prototype, evaluate, and productionize new ML models, including embedding-based retrieval, personalization, and relevance optimization.
• Collaborate with product and analytics teams to define success metrics and measure real customer impact.
• Mentor and inspire data scientists and ML engineers across OLX’s global hubs.
• Stay hands-on, driving implementation in Python and AWS while exploring state-of-the-art advances in LLMs, GenAI, and search infrastructure.
• Promote a culture of learning and innovation.

Requirements

• Strategic and hands-on technical leader
• Deep expertise in search and relevance
• Proven experience designing and productionizing ML solutions
• Strong background in Generative AI and LLMs
• Ability to inspire and lead cross-functional initiatives
• Proficient in Python and at least one other programming language
• Solid understanding of data pipelines and distributed systems
• Exceptional analytical, communication, and stakeholder management skills
• Passion for building systems that connect users to what matters most

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with cloud-based tools for production use
• Experience building large-scale data pipelines
• Experience with workflow platforms like Apache Airflow
• Experience driving Data Science Tech agenda initiatives

Benefits

• Permanent contract
• Salary + annual bonus up to 25% of annual gross salary
• Health insurance and life insurance
• MacBook Pro with necessary accessories
• 100% remote work (with option to work from Barcelona offices)

About the Company

Naspers Limited is a South African multinational holding company headquartered in Cape Town, with interests in publishing, online retail, and venture capital investing in the consumer internet sector.